Solar Panels Cost $8.6k-$20k in Tuscola County, MI | December, 2024
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How much do solar panels cost in Tuscola County, MI in 2024?
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Going solar is $4.1 per watt in December, 2024 in Tuscola County, MI.
Each 1 kW (1000 watts) of solar power capacounty will require an investment of $4,100 for installation. In Tuscola County, the price of a 5 kW solar installation is typically $14,350, after you subtract 30% federal tax credit. A higher capacity system may be needed to adequately cover your energy needs.
To the left,choose your area to view the typical roof size and the average maximum capacity of solar panels for homes in your county. Shown below is a summary of the price, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system in your county.
Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Tuscola County: $14,350US Average: $12,523
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Tuscola County: 9 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Tuscola County: $9,982US Average: $16,152
Solar Potential in Tuscola County
Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in Tuscola County.
Roof size 626sq. ft.
Capacity 8.75kW DC
Electricity 9.1kkWh AC per yr.
Electricity Costs in Tuscola County, MI & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing
In Tuscola County, energy consumers usually spend 127.01 on their electric bill each month, consuming 708 kWh on average. This data account for apartments and other smaller living spaces with reduced energy consumption.
The rate of electricity in Tuscola County, MI, on average, is 17.94¢ per kWh in December 2024.
The upfront cost for a 7 kW solar installation amounts to $28,700, but after a 30% tax credit, your total comes down to $20,090.
Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.
Average solar panel costs by system size in Tuscola County
Displayed on the left and below is the pricing structure for various sizes of solar panel systems installed in Tuscola County. The investment for a bigger solar panel setup is greater, but it also yields greater electricity savings and more substantial income tax credits.
The solar panel cost calculator, situated down and to the right, offers a breakdown of costs and benefits using an average $127.01 electric bill for Tuscola County. Easily replace the $127.01 with your usual electricity bill amount to see more accurate results.
System Size
Roof Size Min. space required
Electricity Value Annual Production
Est. Price
System Size 3kW
Roof Size Min. space required
215 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $738 a year
Est. Price
$8,610
Savings from a 3kWthis system
Est. yearly production 4,101 kWh
Est. monthly savings $62
Full payback in 6 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 0.03 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 1 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 72 mi less a year
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $984 a year
Est. Price
$11,480
Savings from a 4kWthis system
Est. yearly production 5,468 kWh
Est. monthly savings $82
Full payback in 8 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 0.04 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 2 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 95 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,230 a year
Est. Price
$14,350
Savings from a 5kWthis system
Est. yearly production 6,835 kWh
Est. monthly savings $103
Full payback in 9 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 0.05 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 2 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 119 mi less a year
System Size 6kW
Roof Size Min. space required
429 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,476 a year
Est. Price
$17,220
Savings from a 6kWthis system
Est. yearly production 8,202 kWh
Est. monthly savings $123
Full payback in 11 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 0.06 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 3 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 143 mi less a year
System Size 7kW
Roof Size Min. space required
501 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,722 a year
Est. Price
$20,090
Savings from a 7kWthis system
Est. yearly production 9,569 kWh
Est. monthly savings $127
Full payback in 13 years
Environmental Impacts
Reduces CO2 emissions by 0.06 tons a year
Equivalent to planting 3 trees a year
Equivalent to driving 148 mi less a year
Tuscola County Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024
If you run a small business or farm in a rural area, you could receive REAP Grant support that covers 80% to 100% of your solar or wind turbine installation costs. To see if you qualify, use our REAP Grant eligibility tool.
Nearly all homeowners can benefit from the federal 30% income tax credit for solar panels, which renders switching to solar energy a practical choice in many regions of the U.S. Furthermore, numerous state and local programs aim to promote further adoption of solar energy.
There are 17 solar incentive and rebate initiatives in Michigan, provided by various utilities and governmental agencies.
Solar incentives in MIIncentive Description Value
Michigan Saves - Home Energy Loan Program
Value:Up to $30,000
Single-family homes or multifamily properties up to four units may be eligible for special financing on energy efficiency improvements through the Michigan Saves Home Energy Loan Program (HELP). Eligible projects range from energy efficient lighting to new residential solar photovoltaic systems (up to 20 kW). Available principal for a HELP loan ranges from $1,000 to $30,000. Repayment plans range from 12 - 120 months. Interest rates will vary but typically range from 4.25 - 6.99%. To apply, proof of property ownership and standard credit checks are required. Applicants should have a minimum FICO credit score of 640, and a maximum debt to income ratio of 1:2. Additional information is available from the Michigan Saves website.
Michigan Saves - Business Energy Financing
Value:Up to $1,000,000
Small businesses, nonprofits, and owners of multifamily or public-sector buildings in Michigan may be eligible for special financing on energy efficiency improvements through the Michigan Saves Business Energy Financing Program (BEFP). BEFP loans carry special interest rates and repayment terms. Eligible projects range from energy efficient lighting to new solar, wind, or geothermal energy devices. Interested property owners may consult the Michigan Saves website for additional information and to download a pre-approval checklist. The website also contains a directory of lending partners that service BEFP loans.
Interconnection Standards
Value:Varies
Distributed generation and interconnection have been standardized by the Michigan Public Service Commission since 2003. Each energy system connected to the state grid will be assigned into one of five "categories" based on rated capacity. Systems at each level must follow recognized standards such as those set by IEEE or UL. Interconnection fees and application review turnaround will depend on the system's level. Customers must carry at least $1 million of liability insurance coverage on energy systems between 1 to 5 MW by law. Though external disconnect switches are not required centrally, utilities may request that they be installed prior to interconnection. After successful connection, customers will own any renewable energy credits they generate and may sell them to the utility at their discretion.
City of Ann Arbor - Green Power Purchasing
Value:Varies
The city of Ann Arbor is working toward a long-term goal of sourcing 100% of its energy from renewable means. Four initiatives support this goal, including community-choice power purchasing agreements, solar/wind system incentive programs, establishing community solar microgrids, and converting retired landfills into solar farms. Additional information is available from the Ann Arbor website.
Renewable Energy Standard
Value:Varies
Michigan requires private/municipal utilities and electric retailers/cooperatives to submit Renewable Energy Plans detailing their compliance with the state's portfolio standards. By 2021, 15% of each company's electricity should be sourced from renewable means. Eligible technologies include solar PV, wind, biomass, solid waste, and currently-operational hydroelectric systems (new hydro does not count toward the standard). Compliance is measured through a renewable energy credit system pegging electrical capacity to a dollar value. The standard law includes "bonus credit" provisions which a utility may earn for exceeding their standard quota or using an in-demand renewable technology. Additional information is available from the Michigan state website.
Refundable Payroll Tax Credit
Value:Varies
The NextEnergy Zone is located on the Wayne State University Detroit campus. The area is a Renaissance Zone, allowing renewable energy companies and institutions who locate inside to receive certain tax incentives. Incentives specific to the NextEnergy Zone include indirect payroll tax credits for a company's employees, provided they work directly with renewable energy manufacturing or R&D. Credit amount is equal to an employee's salary times their state income tax rate as a percentage. Should credit exceed liability, a refund will be issued for the remainder of the credit amount. Additional information is available through the NextEnergy Authority website.
Low-Income and Energy Efficiency Fund (LIEEF)
Value:Varies
The Low Income and Energy Efficiency Fund (LIEEF) is a public benefits fund in Michigan. LIEEF is supported by the state's three largest power companies through monthly consumer surcharges. Rather than supporting incentive or rebate programs, LIEEF funding supports request-for-proposal programs and grant initiatives to support low-income Michiganders in adopting on-site renewable energy or making other energy efficiency improvements. Additional information is available from the Michigan Public Service Commission, which administers the fund.
City of Grand Rapids - Green Building Requirements for Municipal Buildings
Value:Varies
Grand Rapids has adopted a local green building ordinance for municipal facilities. New public buildings and remodeling projects which affect at least 10,000 square feet or cost $1 million must meet or exceed LEED Silver certification or an equivalent standard. Existing buildings should draft plans to implement LEED-friendly improvements and "best practices", including procuring ENERGY STAR certified appliances and building materials when necessary. Additional information is available from the city website.
Michigan Accelerating Technologies (MATch) Energy Grant
Value:Varies
Michigan Accelerating Technology (MAT) is a grant program managed by the state's NextEnergy authority. Through MAT, businesses and educational institutions that receive federal grants supporting energy sustainability or alternative transportation research may be eligible to have their awards matched at the state level. Grant recipients may be eligible to contract some services to the NextEnergy Authority (for example, statistical analysis and supply chain research.) Additional information is available from the NextEnergy website.
Energy Efficiency in State Buildings
Value:Varies
Michigan first established a mandatory renewable portfolio standard in 2008. The standard required at least 25% of the state's energy to be sourced from renewable means by 2015. The standard was part of a larger restructuring law which also established green construction standards for new state buildings, energy efficiency "best practices" for existing buildings, and a new agency to regulate wind power in the state. Additional information is available from the federal Energy Codes database.
Net Metering
Value:Varies
Private/municipal utilities and electric cooperatives in Michigan are required to offer "inflow-outflow" tariff program participation to new renewable energy and distributed generation customers. This program serves as the successor to traditional net metering, which is expected to be phased out in full by 2028. Under an inflow-outflow contract, customers are technically billed for all electricity they generate, including excess generation (EG) sent to the grid. Rather than paying for all generated energy, however, they will only owe the cost of their "nettable energy" in that cycle. Nettable energy is equal to total power generated at the standard billed cost minus EG at a different "credit rate." As with net metering, should generation exceed consumption, any remaining bill credits will be applied to subsequent cycles. Additional information is available from the Michigan state website.
City of Lansing - Green Power Purchasing Policy
Value:Varies
Lansing has established its own renewable portfolio standard goals. The city was required to source 20% of its energy from renewable means by 2020 and 50% by 2030. Additional measures set goals for reducing energy use by 10% in city buildings. Additional information is available from the Lansing municipal website.
Alternative-Energy Personal Property Tax Exemption
Value:Varies
The NextEnergy Zone is located on the Wayne State University Detroit campus. The area is a Renaissance Zone, allowing renewable energy companies and institutions who locate inside to receive certain tax incentives. Incentives specific to the NextEnergy Zone include property tax exemptions on renewable energy systems, alternative vehicles, and corporate belongings. Eligible property must be completely new to Michigan; real estate does not qualify for exemptions. Additional information is available through the NextEnergy Authority website.
Solar Contractor Licensing
Value:Varies
Special licenses are available for installation/repair contractors of solar thermal systems in Michigan. Certified HVAC contractors do not need a separate license to install solar devices. To obtain a solar thermal license, applicants should have three years of experience as a journeyman and pass an exam. A trade school diploma counts as one year of experience. There is currently no special licensure for solar photovoltaic contractors. Solar contractors of any specialty may need to subcontract certain plumbing or electrical work. Additional information is available through the Interstate Renewable Energy Council.
Lean and Green Michigan PACE
Value:Varies
Lean and Green Michigan is a statewide property-assessed clean energy (PACE) program that offers special financing for energy efficiency improvements and equipment. Multi-family residential and commercial property owners alike may consult with PACE representatives to design a competitive loan with a private lending partner. Effectively, funding comes from the government; repayment will therefore take the form of a tax lien senior to the property's mortgage. Single-family homes are ineligible for PACE funding due to regulatory concerns from the FHFA. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac cannot take ownership of a mortgage with an active PACE lien. Interested property owners should visit the Lean and Green Michigan website.
Renewable Energy Program Grants
Value:Varies
Funding for renewable energy grants and initiatives may be provided by the Michigan Energy Office. Grants support educational programs for local governments and businesses on renewable energy adoption. Communities may obtain personalized feasibility studies or examine prototype equipment. Additional information is available from the Michigan Agency for Energy website.
Renewable Energy Renaissance Zones
Value:Varies
"Renaissance Zones" are clearly designated locations in Michigan in which renewable energy developers may qualify for special tax incentives. Qualifying facilities will earn a 15-year property tax abatement and are exempt from state corporate, education, and income taxes, along with some local taxes. Eligible construction includes new solar, wind, or biomass facilities. Capital construction for institutions researching or manufacturing renewable energy products may also qualify for exemptions. Applications for Renaissance Zone incentives will consider potential economic impact. Additional information is available from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation website.
Are solar panels worth it in Tuscola County, MI?
For homeowners in Tuscola County who intend to stay in their residence beyond the solar payback period, solar panels make an good investment. If you install a 5 kW solar system in Tuscola County, MI, you might save $16,132.4 over 20 years on average, with a break even point at roughly 9 years.
The cost of not having solar panels in Tuscola County, MI
In addition to missing out on the savings mentioned above, not having solar panels or an alternative backup energy source results in total reliance on your electric utility for electricity. Several recent news reports have illustrated that total reliance on your utility is not always ideal.
Lately, the average number of utility outages per customer annually in Tuscola County has been about 0.89. Outages generally last for an average of 120.2 minutes. During major occurrences like aging infrastructure, thunderstorms or vandalism, these times can extend significantly.
See the info below to see the number of current electricity customers without power in Tuscola County.
Even if it is without a backup battery, a solar panel system can reduce the stress of possible future outages.
Power Outages
Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Tuscola County.
What impacts the cost of solar panels in Tuscola County, MI?
Your Energy Needs - The upfront cost for larger solar panel systems is higher, but the cost per watt reduces as the system size expands. A lot of people find it useful to install a solar energy system that can replace their entire electric bill. This ensures optimal savings.
Make & Model - Similar to other industries, the solar energy sector includes a range of solar panel brands and designs. The system preferences of your chosen installer can make it important to pick a highly rated company. The use of high-quality models can greatly better the long-term experience for buyers.
Solar Panel Type - Monocrystalline panels are widely recognized as the industry standard, and for valid reasons. They are associated with a higher price, but they produce more energy. Most solar panel installers opt for this type of material.
Your Property - Every property and home is distinct. Sloping terrain, trees, or other barriers can make the installation more difficult. Currently, many solar installers are able to utilize satellite images to evaluate your home and incorporate these aspects for the first cost estimate.
Labor Rates - The wages that companies give their employees vary, and these expenses are eventually passed on in consumer prices. Businesses typically receive higher reviews for their work and customer service when they pay higher wages.
Permitting & Interconnection - Your installation cost will be influenced by area-specific permitting and utility interconnection fees. Reputable local installers will integrate these numbers into your preliminary quotes to prevent any surprises.
See what solar panels cost in other Tuscola County cities
Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.
Who are the best solar installers in Tuscola County?
Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
Consulting on all things solar related.
Tuscola County, MI Solar Panel Cost FAQs
During December, 2024, the average price for solar panel installations in Tuscola County, MI is $4.1/W. For a 5 kW solar panel system, the total cost in Tuscola County, MI after federal tax credits is around $14,350.
Various utility providers and government organizations in Michigan are offering 17 rebates and incentives at this time. Moreover, nearly everyone is eligible for the 30% federal income tax credit.
Opting to pay in cash provides the highest savings, but there are now numerous financing options for solar panels that make financial sense. Installers typically partner with financing companies and will include this information into your initial quotes.
Yes, in Tuscola County, MI, the average payback period for 5 kW solar panels is 9 years, resulting in average electricity savings of $16,132.4 over 20 years.
Savings from 
Environmental Impacts 
